MORALITY THROUGH THE LENS OF INDIAN KNOWLEDGE TRADITION: A STUDY OF VIRTUE AND ETHICS

Abstract

Morality has remained a central concern in philosophical discourse across civilizations, shaping human conduct and societal organization across time and space. In the Indian Knowledge Tradition (IKT), morality is not merely a codified set of rules or externally imposed norms, but an integrated system deeply rooted in metaphysics, spirituality, and cosmology. It is embedded in the concept of dharma (righteous duty), guided by karma (the law of action and consequence), and ultimately oriented toward moksha (liberation). Drawing from foundational texts such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Manusmriti, this paper critically examines the philosophical foundations, ethical principles, and socio-cultural applications of morality in Indian thought. It further incorporates contemporary scholarly interpretations from peer-reviewed journals indexed in Scopus and UGC Care to highlight the continuing relevance of Indian ethical philosophy. The study argues that Indian morality offers a holistic, context-sensitive, and spiritually grounded ethical framework that is not only internally coherent but also globally applicable, particularly in addressing ethical crises, ecological concerns, and social fragmentation in contemporary society.